Heirlooms x Britannic Explorer: A New Chapter in British Luxury Travel

This landmark project represents a meeting of heritage, craftsmanship, and modern British luxury, and we are honoured to be part of its story.

Designed by the acclaimed interior studio Albion Nord, the Britannic Explorer reimagines slow travel through a distinctly British lens: refined yet grounded, elegant yet quietly adventurous. Our textiles were chosen to complement this vision, delivering both beauty and uncompromising performance in a uniquely demanding environment.

Supplying textiles for a sleeper train requires a level of technical expertise beyond traditional hospitality. All of the bed linens we provided for the Britannic Explorer were specially treated with a fire-resistant coating, meeting stringent safety regulations without compromising on handle, breathability, or comfort.

This process highlights one of Heirlooms’ core strengths: our ability to combine specialist technical knowledge with the tactile and visual qualities expected at the highest level of luxury. Every finish, coating, and treatment was carefully selected to ensure durability, compliance, and longevity—while still feeling indulgent to the guest.

For the table linens, the Britannic Explorer chose our Contessa quality—a refined linen and cotton blend with a soft, understated sheen and a classic linen texture. Contessa is a fabric that feels intrinsically British: well-polished yet resilient, elegant yet full of character. It speaks to a spirit of quiet determination and timeless style, perfectly echoing the journey through Britain’s landscapes.

The guest experience is completed with beautifully soft cotton towels, designed to offer exceptional absorbency and comfort. These include towels for use on board as well as exterior towels for day trips, ensuring a sense of considered luxury follows guests wherever their journey takes them.

The Britannic Explorer has been thoughtfully designed to offer an intimate, elevated travel experience. Key features include:

• Luxurious sleeper cabins with carefully curated interiors by Albion Nord

• Elegant dining spaces that celebrate British craftsmanship and materials

• Refined lounge areas designed for relaxation and socialising

• A seamless blend of classic railway romance and contemporary comfort

• Panoramic routes showcasing the beauty of England and Wales

Every detail has been considered to create a journey that feels both nostalgic and modern—an experience where the journey itself is as memorable as the destination.

In July, we were delighted to be invited to the official launch party of the Britannic Explorer, held at London Euston Station. The evening was a true celebration of British luxury and innovation.

Guests were welcomed with canapes and champagne flowing throughout the night, setting the tone for a glamorous yet relaxed atmosphere. The event featured a DJ, alongside dancers performing on the platform, creating a sense of theatre and occasion rarely seen in a station setting.

We were also given an exclusive first look at the train, with a guided tour through its beautifully designed interiors. The guest list included a number of notable attendees, including Keira Knightley, adding to the excitement and prestige of the evening.

Collaborating on the Britannic Explorer has been a privilege. It represents everything we value at Heirlooms: exceptional materials, technical mastery, thoughtful design, and a deep respect for British heritage—reimagined for the present day.

We are proud to see our linens become part of this extraordinary journey across England and Wales, and we look forward to many more moments where craftsmanship and travel meet in such a meaningful way.

Read more about the stunning train, here.